Kozhikode: Two-year-old dies after falling into waterlogged courtyard amid heavy rains

A two-year-old child died at a private medical college hospital in Kozhikode district on Saturday night, hours after falling into a waterlogged courtyard at his home. The child was identified as Masin, son of Noushad, a resident of Kannankadavu near Kappad.

The incident occurred around 12 noon on Saturday (August 1). According to preliminary information, the child slipped and fell into the water-filled courtyard, which had become inundated after stormwater gushed into the area from a nearby road and drainage following a heavy downpour.

He was immediately rushed to a private clinic near his house, where doctors assessed his condition as critical and referred him to a private medical college hospital. The child was later placed on ventilator support but succumbed to his injuries by 10:30 p.m. the same day.

Police sources confirmed that the body was handed over to relatives after a post-mortem was conducted at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. No foul play is suspected, and the death has been treated as accidental.

Local residents told reporters that several households in the Kannankadavu area experienced a harrowing time as stormwater suddenly entered their homes and courtyards during the heavy rain on Saturday. Waterlogging in residential areas has become a recurring concern during the monsoon season in parts of Kerala, with inadequate drainage and road water overflow often affecting low-lying neighbourhoods.

The incident comes amid widespread rainfall across Kerala, with the India Meteorological Department issuing alerts for several districts. Authorities have advised residents in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant and avoid moving through flooded or waterlogged areas, especially in the case of young children and the elderly.

Officials from the local panchayat and revenue department have visited the family and offered condolences. The district administration has also directed officials to inspect drainage systems in residential areas to prevent similar incidents.

While the exact circumstances leading to the child's fall are still being verified, the tragedy highlights the dangers posed by waterlogging, particularly for small children. Families in rain-affected regions are being urged to ensure that open courtyards and pathways remain safe, and that children are not left unsupervised near accumulated water.

The child's death has saddened the local community, with neighbours and relatives gathering at the family's home to offer support. The last rites are expected to be held on Sunday, with family members awaiting the formal completion of post-mortem procedures.

This incident is a reminder of the need for better urban planning and drainage infrastructure in areas prone to flash flooding. As Kerala continues to experience intense monsoon spells, the safety of residents, especially children, remains a priority for local authorities.